Name: Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad for a Zesty Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Wild Rice (Can substitute with brown rice); 1 cup Farro (Quinoa is a gluten-free option); 4-5 Tangerines (Can swap with oranges or grapefruit); ¼ cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be used as an alternative); 1 tbsp Honey (Agave nectar for vegan option); to taste Salt (Sea salt suggested); to taste Pepper

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As I watched the vibrant colors of tangerines and earthy grains come together in a bowl, I couldn’t help but smile. My Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad not only captivates the eyes but also brings a refreshing twist to meal prep. This dish is a hearty, gluten-free delight that can easily become a staple in your weekly lunch rotation or a showstopper at your next gathering. Thanks to its make-ahead charm, you can whip it up in advance, freeing you to focus on enjoying the company of loved ones. With each bite, the unique combination of nutty wild rice and chewy farro, complemented by the sweet tang of tangerines, will leave you craving more. Curious about how this colorful salad can brighten your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Vibrancy on Your Plate: This Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad is not just food; it’s a feast for the eyes, showcasing bright oranges and earthy tones that invite you to dig in.

Hearty Yet Light: The combination of chewy grains and citrus creates a satisfying dish without weighing you down, making it perfect for a lunch that fuels your day.

Versatile Delight: Whether enjoyed as a stand-alone meal, a side for grilled chicken, or a fresh wrap filling, this salad adapts to your preferences, adding a zesty twist to any table.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this salad in advance and keep it in the fridge, ensuring that you always have a nourishing option on hand—just like my Cucumber Strawberry Salad for a sweet finish!

Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Loaded with fiber and vitamins, this salad supports your healthy lifestyle while delighting your taste buds. Plus, it’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs with ease.

Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to this vibrant salad!

For the Grains

Wild Rice – Adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture; can substitute with brown rice for a different taste.
Farro – Provides a hearty base that complements the salad; quinoa is a great gluten-free option if needed.

For the Citrus

Tangerines – Offers sweetness and bright citrus notes that elevate the dish; can be swapped with oranges or grapefruit for variety.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Serves as the base for the dressing, adding moisture and richness; avocado oil provides a lovely alternative.
Honey (optional) – Introduces a hint of sweetness; agave nectar works well for a vegan substitute.
Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; try using sea salt for a more complex taste.

This Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad

Step 1: Cook the Grains
Start by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice and 1 cup of farro under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, in separate pots, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil for each grain. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook the wild rice for about 40–45 minutes until tender yet chewy, while the farro cooks for about 25–30 minutes. Drain both grains and let them cool on baking sheets to prevent clumping.

Step 2: Prepare the Citrus
While the grains are cooling, grab 4–5 tangerines. Peel them carefully, separating the segments and discarding any seeds. Reserve the juices that accumulate during this process in a small bowl, as they will be used for the dressing later. Set aside the tangerine segments once they are all prepared; you want them to be fresh and juicy for your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad.

Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled wild rice and farro. Gently add the tangerine segments, mixing carefully to preserve the integrity of the fruit while ensuring an even distribution. This combination of chewy grains and bright citrus will be the foundation of your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad, creating a delightful textural contrast.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil with the reserved tangerine juice, adjusting the amount to taste. Add a tablespoon of honey for sweetness (or agave nectar for a vegan option), alongside a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Blend the ingredients until they are well combined, resulting in a fragrant dressing that will enhance your salad.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once your dressing is prepared, drizzle it over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly, ensuring each grain and segment is infused with flavor. For the best taste experience, let the Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy right away or refrigerate for later enjoyment!

Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Variations

Customize this delightful salad to perfectly suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Leafy Greens: Add mixed greens like arugula or spinach for a fresh, crisp texture and boost of nutrients. They’ll harmonize beautifully with the grains and citrus.
Nutty Crunch: Include toasted walnuts or slivered almonds for a delicious crunch, enhancing the salad’s texture while adding healthy fats. Their warmth complements the salad’s flavors.
Dried Fruit Twist: Swap tangerines for dried cranberries or apricots. You’ll get a delightful burst of sweetness that’s perfect for those craving a more fall-inspired dish, reminiscent of my Broccoli Salad Bacon recipe!
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a fragrant pop of flavor. These can transform the salad into something exotic and refreshingly vibrant, making it even more inviting.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist. The heat will play off the sweetness of the tangerine, creating a dynamic flavor experience.
Grain Variety: Experiment with different grains. Substitute wild rice or farro with quinoa for a gluten-free option or try barley for a heartier base. Each grain brings a unique essence to the salad.
Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess and a savory contrast to the sweet tangerines. This cheese will add an iconic Mediterranean touch, making every bite decadent.
Citrus Partners: Change the citrus game by adding grapefruit or blood oranges. Their unique flavors will give your salad a zesty twist and elevate the dish to new heights!

Feel free to get inspired and experiment; after all, cooking should be fun! Explore other refreshing options, like my Tuna Noodle Salad, for delightful flavor combinations!

Expert Tips for Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad

Pre-Cook Grains: Cook wild rice and farro a day ahead for optimal flavor. Cooling them completely prevents sogginess when mixed.
Juicy Citrus: Use fresh tangerines for the sweetest taste, but if they’re not in season, swap them for oranges or grapefruit.
Customize Your Dressing: Experiment with the dressing’s sweetness; start with less honey, then adjust to taste, ensuring the salad maintains its freshness.
Mix It Up: Combine the salad well but gently, preserving the integrity of the tangerine segments for a delightful flavor burst in every bite.
Storage Smart: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.

What to Serve with Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad

Brighten your dining experience with complementary dishes that enhance the flavors of this delightful salad.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken offers a savory contrast to the tangy sweetness of the salad. It brings heartiness to the table while balancing the dish’s vibrant notes.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful assortment of roasted seasonal veggies adds depth and sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the tangerines. Caramelized flavors bring a touch of warmth, creating a full-bodied meal.
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: These offer a gluten-free alternative that pairs perfectly, bringing nutty flavors and a comforting texture that echoes the salad’s grains. Serve them together for a well-rounded, satisfying experience.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy texture of garlic bread provides a delightful crunch beside the salad. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast, making it perfect for lingering over dinner with loved ones.
Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing citrus drink complements the salad’s flavors, cleansing the palate while adding a bubbly touch that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich, creamy chocolate mousse made with avocado for a silky finish. It will satisfy sweet cravings while keeping with the healthy theme of your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This ensures the flavors remain fresh while keeping the tangerines juicy.

Freezer: If you’d like to store it for a longer period, freeze the salad (without dressing) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating: For the best quality, enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature. If reheating, warm the grains slightly, but be careful not to overcook the tangerines.

Dressing Tip: Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy your Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad to maintain optimal texture and flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salads are a lifesaver for meal prep! You can cook the wild rice and farro up to 24 hours in advance—simply allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tangerine segments can also be prepared ahead of time; just keep them in a separate container to maintain their juicy freshness. When you’re ready to serve, combine the grains and citrus, whisk your dressing, and toss everything together. This method ensures that the salad remains just as delicious, providing a time-saving, nutritious meal option when you need it most!

Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe tangerines for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for tangerines that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The skin should be smooth and bright, without any dark spots or blemishes, as those can signal overripeness. If you’re not sure, give them a gentle squeeze—ripe tangerines will yield slightly.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this salad?
Very! Store the Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the salad is completely cool before sealing it up to preserve the freshness of the ingredients. Avoid dressing the salad until just before serving to maintain the texture of the grains and fruit.

Can I freeze the Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the salad (without dressing) in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. I recommend serving it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture—a gentle reheat on the grains is fine, but avoid heating the tangerines.

What should I do if my grains are overcooked?
If you find that your wild rice or farro is mushy, there’s hope! While you won’t get that delightful chewiness, you can still salvage your salad. Try mixing in some diced crunchy vegetables—like bell peppers or cucumbers—to add texture. You could also add nuts or seeds for extra crunch, creating a new dimension to your dish.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad regarding allergies?
Absolutely! This Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free if you use quinoa instead of farro. However, check your specific grains and any added ingredients—like honey, which can cause issues for those with bee allergies. Always be mindful of substitutions and inform guests of all ingredients when serving!

Can I make this salad vegan?
Very! Simply replace the honey in the dressing with agave nectar or maple syrup, and you’ll have a completely vegan Wild Rice, Farro, and Tangerine Salad that’s just as delicious. Enjoy experimenting with your ingredients as you create this refreshing dish!